Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, July 11 – Samajwadi Party (SP) chief Akhilesh Yadav has stirred up a political storm, accusing Uttar Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Brajesh Pathak of neglecting his responsibilities as health minister while chasing the chief minister’s chair. The sharp criticism comes amid growing concerns about the state’s healthcare system, with Yadav pointing to recent incidents as proof of mismanagement under Pathak’s watch.
A Heated Accusation
In a fiery press conference in Lucknow on July 10, 2025, Akhilesh Yadav claimed that Pathak’s focus on political ambitions has left the health department in disarray. “The deputy CM is more interested in the CM’s chair than in fixing hospitals,” Yadav said, referencing a recent controversy involving a medical officer and the Kanpur District Magistrate. “Patients are suffering, and the health system is collapsing because Pathak is too busy playing politics.”
Yadav highlighted several issues, including chaotic conditions at a medical college in Gonda and poor facilities in government hospitals in Lucknow and Jhansi. He argued that these shortcomings are forcing patients to turn to expensive private hospitals. “The people of Uttar Pradesh deserve better. Instead of addressing these problems, Pathak is distracted by his own goals,” Yadav added.
Tensions Within the BJP
The SP leader also suggested that Pathak’s ambitions are causing friction within the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). Yadav claimed that Pathak’s focus on securing the chief minister’s position has created a rift with Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath’s office. “It’s turning into a battle between the CM’s office and the deputy CM,” Yadav said, hinting at internal power struggles. Sources within the BJP have described the situation as a “collision of cabins,” with some party members backing Pathak and others siding with the CM’s office.
This isn’t the first time Yadav has targeted Pathak. In November 2024, following a tragic fire at Jhansi Medical College that killed 10 newborns, Yadav criticized Pathak for failing to improve health infrastructure. He urged the state government to prioritize patient safety over political campaigns. “The deputy CM has let the health system deteriorate,” Yadav said at the time.
Pathak’s Response
Deputy CM Brajesh Pathak hit back, dismissing Yadav’s allegations as baseless. Speaking to reporters in Prayagraj, Pathak accused the SP leader of spreading lies to deflect from his own party’s failures. “Akhilesh Yadav is frustrated after losing elections. He can’t accept the progress Uttar Pradesh is making under our government,” Pathak said. He defended his work as health minister, pointing to increased MBBS seats and improved hospital facilities. “I invite Yadav to see the work we’re doing for the people,” he added.
Pathak also referenced past controversies, accusing Yadav of corruption during the SP’s rule from 2012 to 2017. He brought up the Jai Prakash Narayan International Centre (JPNIC) in Lucknow, claiming Yadav’s government turned it into a “hub of corruption.” Pathak insisted that the current BJP government is working to complete the project for public use.
Healthcare Challenges in Focus
The war of words has brought renewed attention to Uttar Pradesh’s struggling healthcare system. Recent reports have highlighted overcrowding, outdated equipment, and staff shortages in government hospitals. The Gonda Medical College incident, where patients faced delays and mismanagement, has become a flashpoint in the debate. Yadav argues that Pathak’s leadership has failed to address these issues, while Pathak claims the state is making steady progress despite challenges.
Political Context
The clash comes at a time of heightened political tension in Uttar Pradesh. With assembly elections looming in 2027, both the SP and BJP are ramping up their rhetoric. Yadav’s accusations may be an attempt to weaken the BJP’s image, while Pathak’s responses aim to project unity and progress within the ruling party.
What’s Next?
As the investigation into the Kanpur DM and medical officer spat continues, all eyes are on how Pathak will address the growing criticism. The health department’s performance remains a key issue, with Yadav vowing to keep the pressure on. “The people of Uttar Pradesh are watching. They want results, not excuses,” he said. The BJP, meanwhile, is focusing on its achievements, with Pathak emphasizing infrastructure improvements and public outreach.
